NPR, June 26, 2019: Black women, motivated to oust trump, aren’t convinced of any democrat yet
The 2020 presidential field, which includes three black candidates of the two dozen currently running, is the most racially progressive ever. Proposals for reparations and racial justice are part of nearly all the candidates’ platforms. However, black women interviewed by NPR said they were motivated more by universal economic concerns — how to get ahead in the world — and by one singular goal, said former college professor Tricia Motes.
“Honestly, the first issue I care most about is who can beat the current president,” she said.
Electability is a driving force among Democratic voters right now, but what it means is highly subjective. For Motes, she thinks Harris has the best chance to defeat Trump. They also share a bond through their sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha.
“She’s my sister, so what can I do, right?” Motes said.
The toughest primary votes to win might be those of younger voters like Briana Hughey. She’s 25, progressive and dissatisfied.
Hughey said Democratic presidential candidates too often take black women for granted, because they know they can always rely on their vote. It’s largely true that black women are the most consistent Democratic voters of any bloc of the electorate, but turnout among black women can be make-or-break for Democrats. It was in 2016, when decreased black turnout contributed to Hillary Clinton’s defeat.
